National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has urged Bungoma residents to stay united and committed in their push to elevate the county to city status, saying the dream remains achievable with collective focus and steady leadership.

Wetang’ula made the remarks on Wednesday, December 10, 2025, at Mukhaweli Primary School in Khalaba Ward, where he joined Kanduyi Member of Parliament John Makali’s family to mourn the death of his elder brother, retired teacher Patrick Wafula Makali.

The Speaker, who attended the funeral alongside local leaders and residents, used the moment to rally the community behind a long-running aspiration to transform Bungoma into Kenya’s next city. In his message, he said the county must not lose momentum.

“In my address, I urged the people of Bungoma to remain steadfast as we pursue our shared dream of elevating our county to city status, assuring them my support towards achieving the city status,” he said.

Wetang’ula also delivered President William Ruto’s condolence message to the Makali family, noting that the Head of State had extended support as a gesture of unity during a difficult time for the family.

“During the solemn ceremony, I conveyed President William Ruto’s condolence message and his generous support to the family; a gesture that reflected true unity and compassion,” he said.

Responsible use of social media

The Speaker also called for responsible use of social media, after rumours wrongly claimed that Kwanza MP Ferdinand Wanyonyi had died. He clarified that the legislator was alive and well, warning against misinformation that causes public distress.

“I also called for responsible use of social media, cautioning against the spread of falsehoods and harmful rumours. I clarified that the Kwanza MP Hon. Ferdinand Wanyonyi is alive and well, despite malicious online claims,” Wetang’ula noted.

He added that moments of grief often reveal the resilience and togetherness of communities.

“Even in grief, I was reminded of our greatest strength, our unity. I stand with the Makali family and the people of Bungoma, today and always,” he said.

Wetang’ula’s message comes at a time when Bungoma leaders are intensifying efforts to meet the requirements needed for the municipality’s elevation to city status, including expanding infrastructure, improving service delivery, and boosting economic activity.